Klipsch RP-1400SW Subwoofer Review
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When it comes to Klipsch subwoofers, opinions are usually pretty divided. In the realm of Klipsch subwoofers, a significant number of enthusiasts reside at opposite ends of the spectrum where you either appreciate the sound they produce at their price point, or you feel that they don't reach low enough frequencies.
No matter which side of the debate you find yourself on, Klipsch has launched a new line of subwoofers designed to cater to a much wider audience. The latest Reference Premier line has been meticulously crafted to address the concerns and preferences of both enthusiasts and skeptics. So let’s dive in and see what the new RP-1400SW has to offer.
Specifications
The RP-1400SW, as its name suggests, features a substantial front-firing 14" Cerametallic woofer as its centerpiece. This newly designed Cerametallic woofer incorporates ultra-long throw transducers, ensuring exceptional performance and a strong low-frequency experience. The woofer's rigid construction minimizes cone breakup and distortion, allowing for precise and accurate reproduction of low frequencies.
This subwoofer features a brand new 500-watt RMS (1,000-watt peak) Class D amplifier with a max SPL of 124db, providing ample power to enhance your audio experience. With a frequency response ranging from 16Hz to 141Hz (±3dB), it covers a wide range of low frequencies, delivering a solid bass performance.
At the rear of the subwoofer, you'll find dual RCA ports that allow you to connect a stereo output or utilize the conventional line-out LFE port typically found on amplifiers and receivers. Like other Klipsch subwoofers, the RP-1400SW features a Gain and a Low Pass knob, allowing you to adjust the output to your liking. The dials on these knobs have been enlarged and feature markings engraved into the sides of the knobs to make changing the setting easier without having to move the speaker away from the wall.
Positioned next to these controls is a phase switch that can be set to either 0 or 180 degrees. The subwoofer also includes an AC input and a power/auto/standby switch. There's also a WA-2 port that provides compatibility with the optional wireless kit, giving you more flexibility in your setup.
Design
The RP-1400SW is a massive subwoofer that demands attention with its substantial size. Measuring approximately 20 inches wide x 21.34 inches tall x 25.67 inches deep and weighing 83.7 lbs, it is a noticeable presence in any room.
The new RP line features a double thick cloth grille, rounded corners, steel grille posts, and shock-absorbing rubber feet. These design elements not only add a touch of sophistication but also serve a functional purpose. The grille and rounded corners contribute to a sleek and stylish appearance, while the steel grille posts and rubber feet provide stability and help minimize vibrations.
The subwoofer, like the reference premiere speaker lineup, is finished in a scratch-resistant ebony vinyl, which gives it a refined look resembling real wood. Looking at the front of the subwoofer, it’s impossible to miss the prominent slot-shaped port positioned at the bottom. Klipsch refers to this design as an Aerofoil, which spans the entire width of the subwoofer. The purpose of this Aerofoil is to minimize port noise, ensuring that low frequencies remain clear and undistorted.
Setup
Positioned it in the front left corner of my room, I slightly angled the subwoofer towards the listening position for optimal sound dispersion. I utilized the LFE input to establish a seamless connection between the RP-1400SW on both a Trinnov Altitude16 and a Denon 4800H. I also made sure that the Low-Pass knob was set to LFE and set the gain to roughly 7.
Performance
The sheer power and impact of the RP-1400SW are truly remarkable. When it comes to reproducing the bone-rattling bass of intense cinematic moments, the RP-1400SW subwoofer proves its mettle, and "Kong: Skull Island" offers a perfect example. In the scene where bombs are dropped and Kong makes his dramatic entrance, the subwoofer truly shines.
As the bombs explode and the chaos unfolds, the RP-1400SW effortlessly handles the intense low frequencies with power and precision. The subwoofer delivers a nice amount of rumbling bass that adds weight and impact to the scene, immersing you in the heart-pounding action.
What makes the RP-1400SW truly exceptional is its ability to stop on a dime. When Kong hurls a tree at the helicopter, there's a sudden cessation of low frequencies. The subwoofer flawlessly responds, instantly ceasing the bass vibrations with incredible control and accuracy.
Next on my audio journey is "Mission: Impossible - Fallout," a movie that pushes the limits of action-packed sequences. One scene, in particular, stands out, where Ethan Hunt relentlessly pursues August Walker in a helicopter.
As the scene unfolds, the thunderous bass emanating from the gunshots is nothing short of impressive. The RP-1400SW subwoofer takes charge, delivering a powerful and impactful bass response that adds weight and intensity to every shot fired. The low-frequency rumble reverberates through the room, immersing you in the action.
During Yung Bleu's "Can't Help Who You Love," the RP-1400SW subwoofer exhibits a remarkable display of brute force when it comes to delivering impactful bass. As the song unfolds, the subwoofer flexes its muscles and adds a powerful punch to the music. When the beats hit hard and the bassline drops, the RP-1400SW unleashes its full potential, filling the room with an undeniable presence.
Conclusion
No matter what I watched, the RP-1400SW proved to be a beast of a subwoofer, boasting an impressive mix of sheer power and crystal-clear precision. It unleashed explosive waves of thunder that not only rattled the room but also brought out the subtlest details in the deepest instruments and effects. The result? An exhilarating ride that takes your music and movies to the next level, especially when accompanied by a killer pair of speakers.
Whether you're a music enthusiast looking to feel the pulse of every bassline or a movie lover wanting to be fully immersed in explosive action scenes, this subwoofer has you covered. With its commanding presence, an impressive mix of power and precision, the new 5-year warranty, and an MSRP of $1,399, it's no wonder that it has earned its place among some of the best subwoofers currently on the market. If you weren't a fan of the previous SPL models, do yourself a favor and give the RP subwoofer line a shot.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Impressive low-end performance | Size could be too large for some rooms |
Sturdy build quality | |
Clean, punchy bass |
FAQ
How do I hook up my Klipsch subwoofer?
To establish the connection between the Subwoofer and the AV receiver, utilize an RCA cable known as a Subwoofer cable. This cable should be connected from the Subwoofer output on the receiver to the line input on the Subwoofer. Klipsch subwoofers offer multiple connection options, including utilizing the LFE channel, the white RCA connection, or connecting in a Stereo pair by utilizing both the white and red RCA connections.
What size subwoofer is best for bass?
The size of a subwoofer alone does not determine its bass performance. While larger subwoofers generally have the potential for deeper and more powerful bass due to their ability to move more air, factors such as driver quality, amplifier power, and enclosure design also significantly impact bass reproduction. It's important to consider your specific needs, room size, and budget when selecting a subwoofer, as a well-designed and properly calibrated subwoofer of any size can deliver excellent bass performance.
Are 2 subwoofers always better than 1?
Using dual subwoofers significantly boosts the overall capacity of the system, resulting in increased dynamic range, reduced compression in output, lower distortion, and minimized risk of overdrive artifacts. In essence, employing dual subwoofers ensures cleaner and more precise bass reproduction, particularly when pushing the system to its limits.
